Behemoth – Satanica - Album Streaming & Download

Origin : Poland

Genre : Black Death Metal

Release : 1999

Album Info / Review

Intro:
The year is 1999. The black metal scene, having weathered the initial storm of Norwegian arson and corpse paint, was splintering into a myriad of stylistic explorations. Amidst this fertile ground, Polish titans Behemoth, fronted by the then-nascent but already formidable Nergal, unleashed *Satanica*. This album stands as a pivotal, if somewhat raw, testament to their evolving sound, a crucial stepping stone from their earlier raw black metal roots towards the more polished and death metal-infused aggression that would define their later career. *Satanica* is not the fully realized behemoth of later years, but it’s a ferocious beast in its own right, a potent brew of unholy fury and burgeoning technicality that still commands respect and reverence.

Track Analysis:
“Diablerie” immediately assaults the listener with a barrage of blast beats and tremolo-picked riffs, a relentless onslaught that sets the tone. Nergal’s vocals, a guttural roar, are still finding their definitive timbre but possess an undeniable venom. The song’s structure, while somewhat linear, builds tension effectively, culminating in a chaotic yet controlled frenzy.

“I’m Coming Back” showcases a slightly more melodic sensibility, with a memorable, albeit bleak, guitar lead that cuts through the sonic maelstrom. The drumming here is particularly noteworthy, a complex tapestry of fills and cymbal work that elevates the track beyond mere aggression.

“The Birth of Tragedy” is an early exploration of atmospheric elements, with spoken word passages and a more deliberate pacing in its initial moments. This stark contrast to the preceding tracks highlights Behemoth’s willingness to experiment, even at this stage. The eventual eruption into a furious mid-tempo assault is all the more impactful for the preceding calm.

“Chant for Ezkaton 2000 e.Kr.” is a sprawling, epic composition. It’s a masterclass in dynamic shifts, moving from crushing, slow-burn passages to blistering bursts of speed. The layering of guitars creates a dense, almost suffocating atmosphere, while the subtle inclusion of keyboard textures adds an otherworldly dimension without becoming overbearing.

“From the Golden Baphomet to the Virgin Mary” is a shorter, more direct track, a punchy statement of intent. It retains the raw aggression of their earlier material but with a newfound clarity and precision in the execution of the riffs.

“Whispers of the Ancient Gods” introduces a primal, almost ritualistic feel. The chanting, the tribal drum patterns that surface intermittently, and the deep, resonant bass create a sense of ancient dread that permeates the track. It’s a bold move that sets it apart from the more straightforward black metal fare.

“Decalogue” is a blistering, no-holds-barred assault. The riffs are sharp and incisive, and the solos, while not overly technical, are delivered with a raw, untamed energy. This track embodies the unadulterated aggression of *Satanica*.

“Blessed Are the Sick (For They Shall Inherit the Earth)” is a cover, and Behemoth injects their own distinct brand of venom into the Morbid Angel classic. They don’t simply replicate; they reinterpret, adding their signature guttural vocals and a slightly more chaotic edge to the already brutal original.

“Hellgrind” is a fittingly brutal closer. It’s a testament to the band’s commitment to relentless aggression, a final, thunderous statement that leaves the listener battered but exhilarated. The sheer intensity of the performance is palpable.

Conclusion:
*Satanica* is a vital document in the discography of Behemoth. It captures a band on the cusp of a significant evolution, shedding some of the raw limitations of their earlier work while retaining the primal fury that made them a force to be reckoned with. The production, while not as pristine as their later albums, possesses a gritty authenticity that suits the material. The songwriting displays a growing maturity and a willingness to incorporate diverse elements, foreshadowing the grandiosity and theatricality to come. It’s an album that demands attention, a furious declaration of intent from a band that was clearly destined for greater things.